Foods to Avoid for Babies 6 months

Allergy Avoidance It is necessary to discuss with your pediatrician any and all foods that you will give your baby. Be wary of foods that may cause an allergic reaction. It is advisable to keep a food diary to be able to pinpoint what’s causing the allergy. Pediatrician Dr. Abigail Laurel-Suntay says, “Give your baby just one new food at a time, and wait at least two to three days before starting another. After each, watch for allergic responses such as diarrhea, rash, or vomiting. If any of these occur, eliminate the suspect food from his diet until you've consulted your pediatrician.”

What causes allergies? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that a food allergy happens when the body’s immune system reacts against normally harmless proteins found in foods. Reactions may vary in severity. Some symptoms that may occur are skin problems (hives, rash, swelling, sneezing, wheezing), stomach symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), light-headedness, or loss of consciousness. AAP warns that if several areas of the body are affected, the reaction may be severe or even life-threatening. This is an anaphylactic reaction and it requires immediate medical attention.

Foods that may cause allergies It will be wise to breastfeed for as long as possible and to delay giving solids until the sixth month especially if your family has a strong history of food allergies. AAP advises that there are just some foods best given late to your baby. Any food could generally cause an allergy, but those that are said to be highly allergenic are:

Egg whites

Cow’s milk

Soybeans

Wheat

Citrus fruits

Honey

These are best given after your baby reaches a year old. It is always good to be on the safer side and practice precaution.

When baby turns one By the first birthday, most babies eat tender table foods served in small portions. Fresh milk or whole cow’s milk can be given for those who decide to stop breastfeeding. Babies need the full fat for their growth and development, so do not give low fat milk unless otherwise prescribed by your pediatrician.

On the other hand, fish, peanuts, tree nuts (e.g., walnuts, pistachios, pecans, cashews), and seafood are best given when the child reaches the age of two or three years old. But it all really depends on the severity of family history with allergies. AAP reminds that these foods are the most common causes of severe reactions. Avoid giving your baby peanut butter because of allergies and choking.

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Dangerous food! Never leave your baby alone while eating. Choking may occur anytime. Remember to avoid foods that could present a choking hazard. These are:

Raw vegetables

Hard fruits

Raisins

White bread

Whole grapes

Hotdogs

Popcorn

Hard candies

Marshmallows

Dr. Suntay recommends that moms should “always watch your baby for choking in case he/she bites off a piece too big to swallow. At this time, since baby is likely to swallow without chewing.” Dr. Suntay continues to say, “Choking can also happen with hotdogs or meat sticks so these should always be cut lengthwise and then into smaller pieces before being fed to an infant.”

Salt and sugar Salty foods like hotdogs should be avoided as much as possible. Your baby’s kidneys are not mature enough to handle too much salt. Baby’s food should have no sugar or salt until age one, and should be used sparingly thereafter.

Bear in mind to make each meal special for you and the little one. It should be joyous and bonding experience for both of you. It is one way of communication between parent and baby.